Why David Moyes wants Rico Lewis at Everton as transfer stance made clear

Everton continue to show an interest in Rico Lewis this summer.

The Toffees are in the market for defensive reinforcements as the new campaign approaches.

There have been various options linked, with the right-back role in need of change.

Nathan Patterson remains the only recognised option in that role now that Seamus Coleman has left.

Jake O'Brien has thrived there, but he will be keen to return to his natural centre-half position.

That could be possible as David Moyes continues to show an appreciation for Lewis at Manchester City.

Manchester City know where they stand with Rico Lewis exit

There was certainly an element of disappointment surrounding the 21-year-old last season.

He already has 116 appearances under his belt at the Etihad and has been described as "one of the best I ever trained by far", by Pep Guardiola previously.

That couldn't distract from his poor performances last season as City failed to win the Premier League once again.

The door could be open for an exit as Everton interest in Lewis has been mooted this summer.

That has now been reiterated as TEAMtalk reported on Wednesday that the Toffees are still firmly in the race.

Moyes is said to be a fan of the Englishman due to his versatility as he can feature as in either full-back role or even as a defensive midfielder.

They may face a challenge as Man City remain under no pressure to sell Lewis as his contract runs until 2030, so they are in a strong negotiation position right now.

The Blues remain unlikely to go down the loan route, but the report does regard their interest as serious.

Lewis would bring sought after experience to Everton

Goodison News has previously covered Everton's interest in John Stones this summer.

Jack Grealish is another who could come in and make an immediate difference to the mentality on Merseyside.

Lewis would certainly add to that as a young player who has won eight major honours including a Champions League and two Premier League titles.

He didn't have his best season last time around, but still has qualities that could help transform the Toffees' fortunes.

The versatile talent has had the best education under Guardiola and could show his value at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

It is up to Everton to make a deal happen now, but it is clear where Moyes stands.